Image: WikipediaToday, February 2, is Candlemas Day, the day upon which the season of Winter in the northern hemisphere is half over. The end can't come soon enough for a lot of folks.
An old English folk song declares:
If Candlemas be fair and bright
Come, Winter, have another flight.
If Candlemas brings clouds and rain,
Go Winter, and come not again.
This day is also known as Groundhog Day (lots of information), and here in the U.S. we direct our attention to Punxsutawney Phil. He popped his head up to bright sunshine this morning, and left us with a dread of six weeks more of Winter to come. For more information on Phil, go here.
In addition, February 2nd is celebrated as the Pagan Festival of Lights, St. Brigit's Day (Ireland) and in the Roman Catholic church, the Purification of the Blessed Virgin and The Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple.
Today is also the birthday of my teacher/mentor Mrs. V., about whom I have been writing in a series of posts titled "Caught in the Web of Words." I lost track of Mrs. V. when she and her family left Clinton, AR to move to California. I know that she passed away years ago, but upon what day I know not. I'm thinking about you today, Mrs. V.
9 comments:
Nice post, Pat. I'll bet you've lit a flickering candle in her honour.
You really are a mine of information! I enjoyed adding a few more facts to my store, thanks...
I had never heard of Candlemas day. Thanks for the history lesson.
An Arkie's Musings
Hi Pat. I have heard of Candlemas--but wasn't sure of the exact date. Thanks for the reminder!!!!
Mrs. V seemed to be very special to you. I think we all have special teachers in our lives --which would be very proud of what we have become!!!
Have a great day.
Hugs,
Betsy
Great post, Pat. I didn't realize this day had that many designations.....it really is quite special, and for much more than Puxatawney Phil. Blessed Candlemas to you!
So many things tied to one little day. Thanks for sharing.
Very nice post. This is the first time I have every heard of Candlemas Day.
With all of the snow and ice that we have had this first half of winter I can't imagine the second half being any better.
Thanks for taking a look at my hawk painting.
Candlemas -- beautiful!
I know. You don't need another award, but I've nominated you for one anyway! Hope you'll stop by and pick up the Marie Antoinette Real Person, Real Award!
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